The NSW explorer had its Rosella EO1 exploration well suspended by the NSW government last week, with the matter referred to the notorious Independent Commission Against Corruption on the back of claims that the company did not undertake “genuine and effective” community consultation.

The move followed months of protests from anti-CSG campaigners who set up a camp near the well and hampered operations, claiming that the Rosella EO1 well was a CSG well, despite Metgasco’s assertions that it was targeting tight sandstone targets, exempting it from the state’s CSG regulations.

“The Office of CSG is conducting an ongoing audit of all Petroleum Exploration Licences and is focused on ensuring company compliance with title conditions,” NSW Resources and Energy Minister Anthony Roberts said on Thursday, prior to Metgasco’s submission.

“I have been advised by OCSG that fundamental concerns have been expressed by members of the effected community about the way in which Metgasco has characterised its activities.”

OCSG was meant to consider Metgasco’s submission and advise yesterday if it was prepared to lift the suspension.

However, Metgasco received notification last night that the consideration was ongoing, with an end date as yet unconfirmed.

The company has also maintained its commitment to gas resources in the Clarence Moreton Basin contrary to media reports over the weekend.